FAQs
Questions we get asked on a regular basis.
Further and higher education related issues
I was accused of plagiarism by my University. Is there anything I can do?
If you have not plagiarised then you can appeal and we can assist with the appeal. If you have plagiarised but have mitigating circumstances you can still appeal within public law grounds. We are happy to discuss the options with you.
I am an overseas student but I should be entitled to home fees. Can I appeal against this decision?
It depends on the your circumstances, the reasons why you have been overseas and how long you have been in the UK.
I have not received adequate supervision from my supervisor. What can I do about this?
You may have a claim for breach of contract and/or may pursue an internal complaint procedure. This will depend on the Regulations and Handbooks that you were provided with at the outset of your course.
Yes, generally once you have exhausted the first stage of any disciplinary procedure, you will have the right of appeal.
Can I get legal assistance for internal university procedures?
Yes, a Legal Adviser can assist you to draft your appeal, liaise with the University and sometimes can represent you at any hearing.
Is it possible to assist me with an appeal to the Office of the Independent Adjudicator?
Yes we can assist with drafting the appeal and representing you before the OIA
Can I sue my University for damages?
Yes but it will depend on the level of loss suffered and what evidence you have to demonstrate the extent of the loss.
School related issues
As a parent, you have a right to express a preference as to what type of school your child should attend particularly if your child has special educational needs.
My child has been excluded from a private school. Can I appeal against that decision?
Yes, although private schools are not subject to the Education Act, they are subject to their own policies and procedures. The school must provide for an appeal against the exclusion.
I didn’t get my child into the school of my choice. What can I do?
You can appeal to the Admissions Appeal Panel of that school. You will need to ensure that you meet the criterion.
What can I do if I think my child has learning difficulties?
You can request that the Local Authority refers your child for a statutory assessment in accordance with the Education Act 1996 and supporting Education (Special Educational Needs) (England) (Consolidation) Regulations 2001.
Can I appeal against my child’s exclusion?
Yes, it will however depend whether the exclusion is for a fixed term exclusion or permanent. If it is for a fixed term exclusion, you must appeal to the Governing Body and if it is permanent, you must appeal to the independent appeal panel.
No. This can be considered as an unlawful exclusion. A head teacher must exclude a child formally and cannot just send a child home without reasons. This would be subject to challenge and possibly damages if your child is denied the right of access to education.
My child attends a private school but is not receiving adequate support. Can I demand my fees back?
There is a possibility that you can request a refund of your fees if you can establish that there has been a breach of contract.
